MONTPELIER — The Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife says it’s going to use a $500,000 bequest from an East Montpelier woman to support programs that protect nongame species like the bald eagle or Canada lynx.

The department said that when Mamie Thurston died last winter at age 87 she left her home, property, belongings and financial assets to the department.

Steve Parren, director of the Wildlife Diversity Program, said Thurston’s bequest will be used to fill budget gaps and that her legacy will long be reflected by the species and lands that her donation will help protect.

The Nongame Wildlife Fund is paid for with private donations and federal grants, which have been hit hard by recent federal budget cuts.